Well Child Exam

What is a well child exam?

A well child exam is a critical component of preventive care. It’s a brief appointment that assesses your child’s health and well-being through various measures, including laboratory tests and screenings.

Most children undergo their first well child visit three to five days after being born. To ensure your child remains healthy, the team at Bloom Pediatrics recommends making an appointment at least once a year until they’re 18. 

What does a well child exam involve?

A well child exam involves several parts, including:

Physical exam

The team at Bloom Pediatrics begins a well child exam by conducting a physical. They assess your child’s eyes, ears, nose, and throat, gently palpate their organs, observe their gait and posture, and test their reflexes. Afterward, they examine their skin for any unusual marks or growths.

Laboratory testing

The team at Bloom Pediatrics orders laboratory testing, like blood work or urinalysis. These measures allow the team to detect potentially serious health problems invisible to the naked eye, like vitamin deficiencies, hormonal imbalances, or high cholesterol. 

Vaccines

Your child’s Bloom Pediatrics might recommend one (or several) vaccines, depending on your child’s age and medical history. Most immunizations only require one shot, but some require two. 

Medication refills 

If your child takes medication for an underlying health problem, Bloom Pediatrics can update the prescription. They also ask if they experience any side effects and if the medicine works as it should.

Nutritional and exercise guidance

Children’s bodies develop rapidly, so it’s important they eat a healthy, balanced diet that provides them with proper nutrition. If your child plays sports or participates in other physical activities, they can also make recommendations for warming up, cooling down, and preventing injuries.

Questions and answers

At the end of a well child exam, Bloom Pediatrics sets aside time to answer any of your or your child’s questions. They recommend bringing a list of anything you’d like to discuss so you don’t forget anything. 

What should I bring to a well child exam?

To ensure your son or daughter gets the most out of their well child exam, Dr. Chung recommends bringing the following items:

• A list of the medications or supplements your child currently takes
• A list of any symptoms or pain your child is experiencing
• Results from any recent or relevant tests
• Your child’s medical and surgical history

If it’s time to schedule a well child exam for your little one, make an appointment at Bloom Pediatrics by calling the office or requesting an appointment online today.